How To Get Free Solar Panels in Ohio
Updated December 13, 2024 | 9 min read
If you're a resident of Ohio, you may qualify for free solar panels through various state and federal programs. This guide will walk you through how to get free solar panels in Ohio, from reviewing your options to finding a licensed installer.
Are Solar Panels Free In Ohio?
This article provides an overview of the process for obtaining free solar panels in Ohio, including the qualifying criteria and your top choices for working with licensed installers in the state.
Read on to find out more or get in touch with our experts to discuss the specifics of your home.
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Step 1: Review Your Options
Free solar panels in Ohio have been gaining popularity in recent years as more and more homeowners and businesses are looking for ways to save money on their energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint.
With the cost of solar panels continuing to decrease and government incentives and rebates becoming more readily available, it is becoming increasingly feasible for Ohio residents to install solar panels in their homes and businesses without having to pay anything out of pocket.
Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)
One of the most popular ways that Ohio residents are obtaining free solar panels is through solar leasing or power purchase agreements (PPAs). With a solar lease, a homeowner or business owner agrees to allow a solar company to install solar panels on their property, and in exchange, the homeowner or business owner agrees to purchase the electricity generated by the panels at a lower rate than what they would pay for electricity from the grid.
This means that the homeowner or business owner can save money on their energy bills without having to pay for the cost of the solar panels upfront.
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Ohio Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC)
Another way that Ohio residents can obtain free solar panels is through government incentives and rebates. The state of Ohio offers a number of incentives and rebates for solar energy systems, including the Ohio Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program and the Ohio Advanced Energy Fund.
These programs provide financial incentives to homeowners and businesses that install solar panels, which can help offset the cost of the panels and make them more affordable. Additionally, many utility companies in Ohio offer rebates to customers who install solar panels, which can also help reduce the cost of the panels.
Community solar
Another way to get free solar panels is through community solar programs. Community solar programs allow multiple households to share a solar energy system and split the benefits of the energy it generates.
These programs are typically offered by utilities or independent solar developers and allow customers to subscribe to the energy generated by a nearby solar array, rather than installing panels on their own property. Community solar is a great way to participate in solar power without having to own a home or have an ideal roof for solar installation.
It's important to note that, while the solar panels themselves may be free, there are still costs associated with installing and maintaining them. These costs can include site assessments, permitting, interconnection fees, and ongoing maintenance and monitoring. However, these costs are typically much less than the cost of purchasing solar panels outright and can be offset by savings on energy bills and government incentives.
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Other Financial Benefits of Solar Panels in Ohio
Besides the programs aimed at offering free solar panels, Ohio homeowners interested in powering their homes with solar panels can also benefit from various solar incentives. Some of the notable local solar incentives include:
- Property Tax Exemption: Homeowners who install solar panels can receive a property tax exemption for the increase in their property value.
- Federal Solar Tax Credit: Homeowners who install solar panels can claim a federal tax credit of 30% of the cost of the system.
- Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs): Homeowners can sell Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) to utility companies to help offset their investment costs. These credits are earned from the excess electricity generated by their solar panels.
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Step 2: Find Out if Your Home Qualifies
Depending on your exact location and home specifications in Ohio, you may qualify for different solar programs with varying benefits. We highly recommend consulting with a local solar expert to discuss your installation and purchasing options. Failure to apply for the right programs before starting your installation may result in significant cost savings being missed.
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Step 3: Get a State-Licensed Installation
If you reside in Ohio and plan to utilize solar energy to power your home or business, it is crucial to engage the services of a state-licensed professional solar company. Doing so guarantees your eligibility for the appropriate programs, maximum cost savings, and a safe and secure installation.
At EcoGen America, our local Ohio solar specialists are ready to guide you through the entire process. We will assist you in selecting the best programs and provide a secure and high-quality installation.
Our company is dedicated to providing Ohio residents with the numerous advantages of solar power.
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Why Trust EcoGen?
At EcoGen America, we take pride in the credibility of our information and ensure its accuracy by cross-referencing our data with esteemed institutions such as the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Our rigorous validation process underscores our commitment to delivering trustworthy and up-to-date solar content with editorial integrity. Our partners do not direct our editorial content. Learn more
